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Bert Ellis Wiggins Jr., a beloved husband, father, and distinguished U.S. Army veteran, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on January 5, 1937, in Savannah, Georgia, Bert was the cherished son of Bert Ellis Wiggins Sr. and Myrtle Elizabeth Wiggins (née Ashmore). Bert’s early years were spent mostly in Houston, Texas, and Jersey City, New Jersey, where he graduated from high school in 1954. His sense of duty and patriotism led him to enlist in the U.S. Army in 1955. During his service, Bert excelled through Airborne and Ranger Schools, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant while stationed at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and Wiesbaden, Germany. During this time, he served with the 501st Airborne Battalion, the 504th Airborne Battalion, and the 1st Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol LRRP (8th Infantry Division). In 1964, Bert was selected for the Army’s Flight School and Warrant Officer Program. After graduating, he was assigned to the 18th Airborne Corps, where he bravely served two tours in Vietnam between 1965 to 1969, flying over 1850 hours of combat missions in the O-1 Bird Dog and the U-1A Otter aircraft on forward air support and reconnaissance missions. His valor and commitment during these challenging times were a testament to his exceptional character. Upon returning to the U.S., Bert advanced his flight training with U-21 aircraft and UH-1 helicopters and completed his Bachelor’s degree at Troy State University. He then served with distinction at U.S. Army Europe in at Patch Barracks, Germany, and later at the 5th Army Headquarters in San Francisco, where he also studied long hours to complete his Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Golden Gate University. Bert’s career also took him to Korea, where he flew with the 501st Military Intelligence Brigade. He finished his career at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, where he served as a test pilot. He retired after 30 years of dedicated service. His military awards include Bronze Star (Oak Leaf Cluster), Air Medal (33 awards), Legion of Merit, Army Commendation Medal (Oak Leaf Cluster), Master Parachutist, Master Army Aviator, and various Unit Commendations. After retiring from the Army, Bert transitioned to a civilian career as an Oracle Database Administrator, working for the U.S. Air Force at Brooks Air Force Base in San Antonio, where he served for over 20 years before retiring again at age 70. An avid runner, Bert completed the San Antonio Marathon, and he was also a proud member of the Alamo Chapter Vietnam Veterans and the Legacy Motorcycle Club. Bert is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lopez Wiggins, his sisters Judy Stidham and Joyce Taylor, his brother, Robert (Bobby) Wiggins, his children, Danny Wiggins, Edward (Ed) Wiggins, Patricia (Trish) Wiggins, Robert (Rob) Wiggins, Adam Wiggins, and his stepchildren Carrie Presses and John Lerma. He is also survived by his 14x grandchildren,12x great-grandchildren, as well as his extended family and numerous friends. His legacy of dedication, service, and love will be deeply cherished and remembered by all who knew him. A memorial service will be held at Mission Park Memorial (South) to celebrate Bert’s life and contributions. He will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Military Ceremony. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Operation Zero (opzero.org) in Bert’s honor. Bert Ellis Wiggins Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his country, his deep love for his family, and the enduring impact he made on the lives of those around him. May he rest in peace. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a Celebration of Life to begin at 7:00 p.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Committal Service with Military Honors will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with a procession to depart the funeral home at 9:45 a.m.

Tributes

Bert Ellis Wiggins Jr.

January 5, 1937 - July 18, 2024